If you are preparing for the arrival of a guinea pig at home, it is imperative to have the cage or enclosure prepared in advance. In this Animal Expert article, we will pass on all the necessary information and a checklist on what to put in the guinea pig cage.
The size, arrangement of the elements or the type of substrate in the base are frequently asked questions, but they are of great importance if we want our pig to be well cared for and happy. All this you will understand in this article about the house of guinea pigs: what to put in the cage, accessories for the cage of guinea pigs and the enclosure for guinea pigs.
- The size of the cage is very important so that your guinea pig feels comfortable in its new habitat.
- As always.
- We recommend that the cage be as large as possible.
- However.
- If we had to choose a minimum size.
- It would be at least 120 x 60 x 45 cm.
- According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The height of the cage is also very important, as we will be able to add a floor or tunnels and tubes to promote their entertainment. If your intention is not to buy a cage but to create a whole environment, you can fence for guinea pigs, you will surely be very grateful!
At the base of your guinea pig cage it will be essential to add a substrate, whether recycled or agglomerated paper cylinders, you will find several types in pet store, which are used to absorb urine and faeces. At least 2 fingers thick of the substrate should be added to the bottom of the cage.
The substrate needs to be renewed every week, however, if you want to do it every 5 days, it will improve the environmental hygiene of your piglet. You can also remove stool or heavily stained areas on a daily basis.
In the house of guinea pigs, there must always be fresh and clean water at will. To do this, we recommend the classic rodent drinkers, as they are more hygienic, making it difficult for the pig to spill water in the cage.
Keep in mind that if you’ve just adopted a guinea pig and it doesn’t know these types of feeders, it can even die of thirst. If you find that you are not drinking water, place a container in the guinea pig cage for direct access.
Also remember that the typical feed of your guinea pig should always be specific to this rodent, and you will find it in conventional pet shops. Always contain vitamin C. It is also necessary to add fruits and vegetables from time to time, every other day will suffice. For more information, we suggest reading the article on the diet of guinea pigs.
In addition, it is essential that you add hay to the cage, so that your piglet carries its teeth.
Additional readings: Foin for guinea pigs: which is the best?
Make a nest for your guinea pig and cover it with hay (if it’s open), so your new pet feels like it’s in its natural habitat. You can also make a closed nest as a shelter, for example, and add substrate so it can be accommodated. It is essential that every rodent has a nest to take refuge and take a nap at the necessary times.
Add an extra floor, stairs or several toys so your little piggy can have fun when it’s not with you, everything you can imagine! Remember that cuy is a curious animal, and you will love running and discovering new playful spaces.
Get inspired: toys for guinea pigs
If you would like to read articles similar to, we recommend that you visit our What You Need to Know section.